Coyotes in South Florida are helping the region’s environment by eating invasive green iguanas and non-native peacocks, according to new research published in the Journal of Urban Ecology in April.
Adaptable Diet
Scientists studied coyotes in Miami-Dade County for one year and found their diet to be highly adaptable. In the winter months, coyotes ate more iguanas, peacocks, and small animals, while during the wet season, their diet shifted to include more fruits and grass.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said iguanas are harming Florida’s environment by eating native plants. Peacocks, while not a threat to the state’s wildlife, are considered overpopulated.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
